One group of young professionals that we like to give advice
to are the recently graduated, and recently certified/licensed athletic
trainers. We all remember our first year on the job, and the challenges we
faced. I quickly learned that everything I learned in the classroom, was just a
foundation for what was going to be thrown at me. Having a mentor with some
tips to help along the way is a saving grace for many fresh athletic trainers.
Below I have complied a list of “tips and tricks” to help the new athletic
trainer get through the first few years in the profession.
-Get or Stay close to a mentor from the HS setting
-Know and learn your limitations
-Utilize fellow ATCs
-Be confident in your abilities
-Communicate with your team physician
-Evaluate the whole athlete, not just the suspected
injury
-Don't be afraid to refer when necessary
-Work to educate your student athletes and others
-Be honest and straightforward with your athletes,
parents, and coaches
-Don't be afraid to say NO
-Take time to have some fun
-Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. Take
everything one-step at a time
-Listen to the Kids
-Get to know the janitors and secretaries
-Set up reasonable protocols
-Introduce yourself to the other team's ATC
-Don't be afraid to a risk
-Listen to those that have more experience than you,
but also your students
-You're not going to get everything right 100% of the
time. Failing is a part of it.
-Try not to take work home with you
-Don't be afraid to ask for help
-Talk to the kids like they are adults
-Get to know your AD
Good luck on your career as an athletic trainer! Take it one
day at a time, lean on others for advice and assistance, and most importantly,
Have FUN! Welcome to the best profession out there.
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